Measles Exposure Notification – Washington Dulles International Airport

The West Virginia Bureau for Public Health was notified of a confirmed case of measles involving an individual (Maryland resident/case) who returned from international travel. The exposure occurred at Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) on Wednesday, March 5, between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. in Terminal A, transportation to the main terminal, and the baggage claim area.

Measles is highly contagious and spreads through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. Symptoms usually appear 7-14 days after exposure, starting with fever, runny nose, watery eyes, and cough. A rash appears 3-5 days later. Measles remains contagious for four days before and after the rash appears.

What to Do If You Were at the Location:

• If you’ve never received a measles-containing vaccine (MMR or similar), you may be at risk. Contact your healthcare provider immediately.
• Watch for symptoms until March 26 and stay home if symptoms develop. Notify your healthcare provider in advance if visiting.
• If you’ve received two doses of the MMR vaccine or were born before 1957, you’re protected and don’t need to take any action.
• If you’ve only had one dose, consult your healthcare provider about getting the second dose for full immunity.

Measles is preventable through the MMR vaccine, which provides lifetime protection. West Virginia has high vaccination rates, but infants under 12 months and unvaccinated individuals are most at risk.

For more information or to check your immunization status, visit MyIR or contact the Office of Epidemiology and Prevention Services at (304) 558-5358.